Title:  Wargame GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT

Author: R.A. Rochford, CAPT, USN

Abstract: Wargame GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT (WGE) is a concept for a virtual, distributed wargame. It provides a medium to stimulate discussion among players and focus on specific vignettes associated with the execution of multidimensional war plans. The design of the WGE system will permit the conduct of multiple wargames simultaneously, ranging from the strategic to tactical levels of war. Wargames will be specifically designed for multiple groups: Flag and General Officers only; wargames for O-6’s that focus at the operational level of war; junior officers for tactical play; or a combination.

Wargames conducted in the WGE system can play similar to a game of “chess by mail”, conducting one move per month or at the rate of play designated by the sponsor. The intent is to strike a balance that limits the time required to participate while maintaining momentum in the wargame. A virtual, distributed wargame limits impact on the players’ schedule without sacrificing the interaction, collaboration, and innovation that can produce valuable output. Each wargame will explore an element of the war plan and slowly step through it, allowing the players time to contemplate and design the best course of action. The goals of these vignettes are to provide an intellectual challenge, while the scope and scale of the game will keep the players’ interest.

The current political landscape is becoming increasingly relevant to today’s military preparations. Wargaming specific vignettes that focus not only on the military component, but also encompass the diplomatic, informational, and economic components of national power, will help improve the next generation of technology and campaign design. WGE provides senior warfighting leadership another forum to develop valuable inputs to the Integrated Priority List (IPL) and analyze vital areas for research. Opportunities to integrate current intelligence with operational and strategic estimates occur infrequently. The WGE “deep dive” vignettes offer a medium through which to explore and experiment with scenarios and conduct a more detailed examination than larger exercises or wargames normally permit. Developing virtual wargames that are for not only military members, but also include participation from the Inter-Agency, strengthen overall interaction and coordination. The value of virtual, distributed wargaming will strengthen warfare execution through expanded participation and detailed analysis.

Subjects for vignettes can vary from strategic communication implications of moving one fleet's resources to another or evaluating the command and control architecture between the JFMCC and the JFACC in an anti-access/area denial region associated with a war plan. Wargame sponsors will choose specific vignettes, the level of war, and the list of players. These wargames will encourage the continuing development, refinement, and testing of strategic, operational, and tactical level strategies, while exploring the implications. WGE will generate a focus and medium for discussion that does not currently exist. A distributed, virtual wargame provides commanders with a tool to dissect vital areas that today's high paced changing environment does not afford. Wargame GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT delivers the benefits of wargaming without the costs in time.

Briefing Slides: Click here.

Last Updated: 23 August 2011